Let’s face it. Figuring out where to stay in Yosemite can be daunting. Finding any form of Yosemite lodging at all can feel like winning the national park lottery. Even when booking accommodation well ahead of time or during off-peak periods, the options seem endless, and the areas wide-reaching. From hotels to cabins to tents to campsites spanning across Yosemite Valley, Tuolumne Meadows, Yosemite West, El Portal, and Groveland – it’s tough to narrow down the choices.
The good news is that we’ve done all the hard work for you and compiled 21 of the best places to stay in and near Yosemite, undoubtedly one of California’s most beautiful national parks. With train, bus, and flight options departing from multiple locations within the state, Yosemite is a great national park option for those visiting with or without a car.
While you’re here, check out our guide to the best Yosemite Cabins inside the park. Bringing your pup along? We also have a guide to the top Pet-Friendly Cabins in Yosemite.
Where to stay in Yosemite
Click on a link below to skip to a specific Yosemite lodging category:
- Where to Stay in Yosemite Valley
- Where to Stay in Tuolumne Meadows
- Yosemite South Entrance Lodging – Most Direct from LA
- Yosemite Arch Rock Entrance Lodging – Most Direct from SF
- Lodging Near Yosemite Hwy 120 Entrances – Less Traveled Route
- Yosemite Lodging FAQs
Yosemite Lodging Map
Other National Park Lodging Guides you’ll love:
- Where to Stay in Sequoia
- Where to Stay in Joshua Tree
- Where to Stay at the Grand Canyon
- Where to Stay in Zion
- Airbnbs Near Arches
Lodging at Yosemite Valley
The crown jewel of the national park, the vast majority of visitors spend the bulk of their time in Yosemite Valley. Home to icons such as El Capitan, Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and nearby Glacier Point, the Valley has gained immense popularity for good reason. Summer brings substantial crowds, and lodging is extremely competitive due to high demand and limited supply. If wanting to base yourself in the Valley (as most do), your best bet is to book as far in advance as possible. Campsites typically sell out within minutes of being released, and lodges in Yosemite are often booked a year ahead of time during high season.
Lodges in Yosemite valley
Ahwahnee Hotel
#1 Traveler-Ranked Hotel in Yosemite Valley on TripAdvisor
The Ahwahnee will be temporarily closed from January 2nd to March 2nd, 2023 for upgrades.
Smack dab in the middle of Yosemite National Park, you’ll find the Ahwahnee Hotel (formerly the Majestic Yosemite Hotel). Dubbed “luxury on the valley floor,” this lodge boasts incredible views of Yosemite Falls and Half Dome. Although a high-end option, the Ahwahnee is a place you should experience at least once in your life and is the perfect splurge for special occasions or a Yosemite elopement or honeymoon.
Rooms start at $521 per night. Compare rates and read reviews on Tripadvisor.
Fine Print: No minimum stay requirement. Free cancellation up to 7 days before check-in. Family-friendly. Pets are not allowed. Complimentary self-parking is available.
Yosemite Valley Lodge
Rated 4.0 out of 5 on TripAdvisor
Located right in the middle of the Valley, Yosemite Valley Lodge is a fantastic option for groups and families. Featuring stunning views of Yosemite Falls, it’s the ultimate base camp for those wanting to be in the thick of it all, with easy access to major hikes and attractions. Just be forewarned that this lodge books out up to 12 months in advance during the Spring and Summer high seasons.
Rooms start at $288 per night. Compare rates or book directly on Tripadvisor.
Fine Print: No minimum stay requirement. Free cancellation up to 7 days before check-in. Family-friendly Pets are not allowed. Complimentary self-parking is available.
Yosemite valley camping cabins
Curry Village
Rated 4.0 out of 5 on TripAdvisor
The largest lodging facility in Yosemite Valley, Curry Village (formerly Half Dome Village) offers motel rooms, traditional cabins, and canvas camping cabins with plenty of dining options. This spot is central, affordable, and sells out quickly, so book 10 to 12 months in advance if possible.
Units start at $155 per night. Compare rates or book direct on Tripadvisor.
Fine Print: No minimum stay requirement. Free cancellation up to 7 days before check-in. Family-friendly. Pets are not allowed. Free self parking is available.
Housekeeping Camp
Rated 4.0 out of 5 on TripAdvisor
Typically open seasonally from mid-April to mid-October.
The experience of camping outdoors without the hassle of pitching a tent, Housekeeping Camp is made up of three-sided concrete structures with canvas roofs and privacy curtains. Located in the middle of the valley next to the Merced River, spend the day lounging in the sand or taking in the views of Yosemite Falls and Half Dome. Each camping cabin at Housekeeping Camp features a bunk bed, double bed, table, chairs, mirror, lighting, and electrical outlets.
Units start at $108 per night. Compare rates and read reviews on Tripadvisor.
Fine Print: No minimum stay requirement. $10.00 cancellation fee for cancellations made 7 or more days before arrival. Family-friendly. Pets are not allowed. Complimentary self-parking is available.
Yosemite Valley Camping
There are 13 campgrounds alone in Yosemite National Park, not including the many bordering its boundaries. If wanting to camp in Yosemite Valley, planning ahead is your best bet, as most campsites are reserved within minutes of reservations opening each month. Below are a few of our favorite campground options in the park.
Camp 4 (Tent Only)
Rated #5 of 10 campgrounds in or near Yosemite National Park on TripAdvisor
Camp 4 will require reservations throughout February 2023 due to the Horsetail Fall event.
Probably the most famous of the camping options, Camp 4 is where you’ll find world-renowned rock climbers ready for their ascent up the hovering El Capitan. If you’re looking for a central spot in the park, Camp 4 is your best option. Reservations are typically required from late May through October via a daily lottery and first-come, first-served throughout the rest of the year. Facilities include a fire pit, picnic table, four shared food lockers, nearby bathrooms with drinking water, and flush toilets.
Rates: $10 lottery fee + $10 per person per night. Enter the daily lottery now.
Note: Camp 4 is now a Scan and Pay campground. Campers are advised to download the Recreation.gov app before arrival due to poor cell service in the park.
Photo Credit: Mailoha A. on HipCamp
Lower Pines Campground (Tent & RV)
Rated #3 of 10 campgrounds in or near Yosemite National Park on TripAdvisor
Featuring iconic views of Half Dome and riverside campsites, Lower Pines is another one of our favorites. Centrally located within the Valley, you’ll be within easy reach of all the main sights. Reservations are required between April 24 and October 15, 2023; the campground is closed throughout the remainder of the year. Facilities include a fire ring, picnic table, food locker, and nearby bathrooms with drinking water and flush toilets.
Rates: $36+ per site per night. Campsites can be reserved up to five months in advance on the 15th of each month at 7:00 am PST. Make a reservation now.
Download: Lower Pines Campground Map
Photo Credit: Jaspery G. on HipCamp
Upper Pines Campground (Tent and RV)
Rated #1 of 10 campgrounds in or near Yosemite National Park on TripAdvisor
Located just west of Lower Pines Campground, those based at Upper Pines aren’t far from all the park’s top attractions. Reservations are required year-round. Facilities include a fire ring, picnic table, food locker, and nearby bathrooms with drinking water and flush toilets.
Rates: $36 per site per night. Campsites can be reserved up to five months in advance on the 15th of each month at 7:00 am PST. Make a reservation now.
Download: Upper Pines Campground Map
Photo Credit: Kristy W. on HipCamp
North Pines Campground (Tent & RV)
Rated #5 of 10 campgrounds in or near Yosemite National Park on TripAdvisor
North Pines is implementing a one-time Early Access Lottery for the entire 2023 season. General reservations won’t be released until February 15th, after the lottery concludes.
Located right across the Merced River from Lower Pines, this neighboring campground is also one of the more popular options in Yosemite Valley. Reservations are required between April 17 and October 29, 2023; the campground is closed throughout the remainder of the year. Facilities include a fire ring, picnic table, food locker, and nearby bathrooms with drinking water and flush toilets.
Rates: $8+ per site per night. Once the Early Access Lottery concludes on February 15th, remaining campsites can be reserved up to five months in advance on the 15th of each month at 7:00 am PST. Make a reservation now.
Download: North Pines Campground Map
Where to stay in Tuolumne meadows
Situated roughly 60 miles from Yosemite Valley at an elevation of approximately 8,600 feet, Tuolumne is one of the highest subalpine meadows in the entire Sierra Nevada. Far from the hustle and bustle of the Valley, this section of the national park is an excellent option for those wanting to escape the crowds. Accessed via Yosemite’s Tioga Pass Entrance, Tuolumne has developed cult-like status among select Yosemite veterans who return to the meadow year after year. It provides an entirely different experience from what one typically thinks of when they think of Yosemite and is the starting point for numerous backpacking routes.
Tuolumne Meadows Lodge
Rated #3 of 22 Specialty Lodging Options in Yosemite on TripAdvisor
Comprised of 69 canvas tent cabins, Tuolumne Meadows Lodge sits nearly 9,000 feet above sea level and is typically open between early July and mid-September, weather permitting. Located along Hwy 120 (about 60 miles from Yosemite Valley), each camping cabin sleeps up to 4 and includes lanterns, a wood-burning stove, and free firewood. Communal showers and restrooms are available, but tent cabins are not equipped with electricity.
Units average $142 per night. Check availability and book.
Fine Print: No minimum stay requirement. Free cancellation up to 7 days before check-in. Pets are not allowed. Bus service is available between the lodge and Yosemite Valley.
White Wolf Lodge
Rated 4.0 out of 5 on TripAdvisor
Situated along Tioga Rd, approximately 30 miles from Yosemite Valley, White Wolf Lodge is perfect for those hoping to get off the beaten path and away from the crowds. Made up of 24 canvas tent cabins and 4 traditional wood cabins, all units come with towels, bedding, and a heat source. Traditional cabins have the added perk of electricity and a private bathroom.
Reservations: White Wolf Lodge was closed in 2022 but is scheduled to re-open in summer 2023. Reservations are currently available between June 2 through September 4, 2023.
Units start at $138 per night. Check rates and availability.
Fine Print: No minimum stay requirement. Free cancellation up to 7 days before check-in. Pets are not allowed. Complimentary self-parking is available near the camping cabins.
Tuolumne Meadows Campground (Tent & RV)
Rated 4.0 out of 5 on TripAdvisor
Set along Tioga Road, Tuolumne Meadows was one of John Muir’s favorite spots in the park. The perfect opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of the Valley, Tuolumne Meadows is much quieter than most campgrounds in Yosemite. Due to its location along Hwy 120, check road conditions in advance for closures.
Reservations: Tuolumne Meadows Campground is undergoing a major rehabilitation project and will remain closed until 2024 or 2025.
Yosemite South Entrance Lodging
Most direct access to Yosemite from Los Angeles
Yosemite’s South Entrance accesses the park via Hwy 41 and is the most direct option for those traveling from Southern California. Visitors entering this direction are treated to Tunnel View – a sweeping vista over Yosemite Valley that emerges as you exit Wawona Tunnel. One of the most astounding views in the world; pictures don’t do it justice. The closest towns to Yosemite’s South Entrance are Wawona and Fish Camp – both of which offer wonderful lodging options. Bass Lake and Oakhurst are a bit further south.
Wawona Hotel
Rated 4.0 out of 5 on TripAdvisor
A National Historic Monument, the Victorian-era Wawona Hotel first opened its doors in 1856. Located within Yosemite National Park but about 30 miles from the Valley, the property consists of 50 rooms with ensuite baths and 54 rooms with shared baths. Typically open between March and November (and again over Christmas and New Years), the hotel has a 9-hole golf course, an outdoor swimming pool, and riding stables. During summer, there are BBQ nights every Saturday.
Rooms start at $157 per night. Compare rates and book on Tripadvisor.
Fine Print: No minimum stay requirement. Free cancellation up to 7 days before check-in. Pets are not allowed with the exception of service animals. Complimentary on-site parking is available.
Tenaya Lodge
Rated 8.4 out of 10 on Booking.com
Nestled about 2 miles from the park entrance, Tenaya Lodge is one of the most popular hotel options near Yosemite. Offering modern amenities including a spa, onsite restaurant, and more — you might almost forget you’re right next to national park wilderness. You can’t beat the price for what’s offered at this chalet-style hotel, and wifi is included in room rates.
Non-peak rates start at $176 per night || Peak season rates average $404 per night.
Compare rates and book: Expedia | Hotels.com | Booking.com
Fine Print: Travel sustainable property. No minimum stay requirement. Free cancellation up until a specified date. Family-friendly. Pet friendly at an additional fee with optional add-on pet sitting.
Best Western Plus Yosemite Gateway Inn
Rated 8.8 out of 10 on Booking.com
One of our favorite Best Western Plus locations in the country, Yosemite Gateway Inn sits against a hillside in Oakhurst and is spread across seven acres. The hotel features spacious rooms, a lodge-inspired lobby, a full-service restaurant and bar, indoor and outdoor pools, and a picnic and bbq area. Yosemite’s south entrance is just 15 miles away.
Non-peak rates start at $109 per night || Peak season rates average $299 per night.
Compare rates and book: Booking.com | Hotels.com | Expedia
Fine Print: Travel sustainable property. Most reservations can be canceled free of charge up to 24 hours before check-in. Family-friendly. Pet-friendly, but additional charges may apply.
Alpenglow 1
Rated 9.3 out of 10 on Booking.com
This beautiful 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom unit comfortably sleeps 4 to 6 and can accommodate up to 8 if its sofa bed is put to use. Equipped with a dishwasher, balcony, fireplace, A/C, and WiFi, it’s hard to beat in terms of value for money. Situated just a 20-minute drive from the heart of Yosemite Valley in a forested section of Yosemite West, it’s also one of the most well-located places to stay.
Rates average $385 per night for the cabin.
Check rates and book: Vrbo | Booking.com
Fine Print: Minimum stay varies depending on the season. Bookings are non-refundable. Family-friendly property. Pets are not allowed.
Chinquapin Retreat
Rated 4.8 out of 5 on Vrbo
A cozy option for 2 to 4, this 1-bedroom cabin (with an added sofa bed) offers tree-top views, a fully equipped kitchen, free wifi, and private parking. Best of all, it’s located just 17 miles from the Yosemite Valley floor.
Rates average $411 per night for the cabin.
Compare rates and book: Vrbo | Booking.com
Fine Print: Minimum stay varies. Bookings at this rental are non-refundable. Family-friendly property. Pets are not allowed.
Arch Rock Entrance Lodging
Most direct access to Yosemite from San Francisco
Accessing the park via Hwy 140, Yosemite’s Arch Rock Entrance is the quickest option for those traveling from San Francisco. Nearest to this entry point is the sleepy village of El Portal, with Midpines and Mariposa County sitting further west. All three towns offer a variety of lodging options (both in terms of hotels and Airbnbs). Yosemite Valley is just 12 miles from the Arch Rock Entrance, making it wildly convenient.
Yosemite View Lodge
Rated 3.5 out of 5 on Tripadvisor
Overlooking the Merced River and just 2 miles from the national park entrance, Yosemite View Lodge is an excellent option for those arriving from the Bay Area. The hotel has 335 rooms, all of which include a kitchenette and many of which include balconies with outdoor spas. The property also features multiple pools and hot tubs (both indoor and outdoor), a restaurant, a cocktail lounge, and a convenience store.
Rooms average $265 per night during peak season.
Compare rates and book: Expedia | Hotels.com | Booking.com
Fine Print: No minimum stay requirement. Free cancellation up until a specified date. Kids stay free!, but cribs and extra beds aren’t available. Pet-friendly at an additional fee.
Yosemite Cedar Lodge
Rated 3.0 out of 5 on Tripadvisor
Although basic, Cedar Lodge offers reliable value and features an indoor pool. Located about 20 miles from the Valley, it’s often the most affordable option in or near the park outside of Yosemite’s camping cabins and campgrounds.
Rooms start at $129 per night.
Compare rates and book: Expedia | Hotels.com | Booking.com
Fine Print: No minimum stay requirement. Bookings are usually non-refundable. Family-friendly. Pets are not allowed.
AutoCamp Yosemite
Rated 4.5 out of 5 on Tripadvisor
This unique glamping property is located an hour from Yosemite Valley but doesn’t skimp on the amenities, making the relatively long trek to the park worth it. Each trailer has a Tempurpedic mattress, organic linens, and spa-inspired bathrooms complete with a walk-in shower and fluffy robes. There’s also a communal clubhouse, a freshwater pond, a heated pool, a sundeck, and outdoor lounge areas.
Rates start at $209 per night.
Compare rates and book: Expedia | Hotels.com | Booking.com
Fine Print: No minimum stay requirement. Bookings are usually non-refundable. Children of any age are welcome. Pet-friendly at an additional fee.
Lodging near hwy 120 entrances
Less Traveled Route from San Francisco to Yosemite
For those wanting to take the road less traveled, entering Yosemite via Hwy 120 through the Big Oak Flat or Hetch Hetchy Entrance is the best option. Hetch Hetchy is the northernmost entrance on the park’s west side and is a natural treasure that those in the know would prefer to keep secret. Wildflowers are on full display in this area during Spring, and Hetch Hetchy Reservoir is an impressive sight to behold in its own right. Alternatively, Yosemite’s Big Oak Flat entrance sits south of Hetch Hetchy near the town of Groveland.
Rush Creek Lodge at Yosemite
Rated 9.0 out of 10 on Booking.com
Situated in Buck Meadows, Rush Creek Lodge is surrounded by forest and is located less than a mile away from Yosemite’s Big Oak Flat Entrance. Featuring an outdoor pool, two hot tubs, a spa, a restaurant, a tavern, a pool bar, and more, this property leaves nothing to chance and is the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring the park.
Rooms start at $170 during winter and $400 during peak season.
Compare rates and book: Expedia | Hotels.com | Booking.com
Fine Print: Travel sustainable property. No minimum stay requirement. Free cancellation up until a specified date. Family-friendly. Pets are not allowed.
Evergreen Lodge at Yosemite
Rated 9.1 out of 10 on Booking.com
This historic property flawlessly combines rustic charm with modern comfort. Units range from standard rooms to 2-bedroom cottages, and each unit includes an ensuite bathroom, refrigerator, and electric kettle. The property features an on-site restaurant, bar, coffee house, mini-market, pool, hot tub, outdoor fire pit, and more. Situated just one mile from the Hetch Hetchy Yosemite National Park entrance, it’s also well located.
Rooms start at $191 during non-peak season and $375 during peak season.
Compare rates and book: Expedia | Hotels.com | Booking.com
Fine Print: No minimum stay requirement. Free cancellation up until a specified date. Family-friendly property. Pets are not allowed.
Pine Mountain Magic
Rated 4.5 out of 5 on Vrbo
This cozy lakeside cabin near Yosemite North Gateway comfortably sleeps up to 8 and features a game room! You’ll be fully equipped at Pine Mountain Magic with 4 bedrooms, a washing machine, and a fireplace.
Rates start at around $195 per night for the home, excluding taxes and fees.
Compare rates and book: Vrbo | Booking.com
Fine Print: Minimum stay varies depending on the season. Free cancellation up to 30 days before check-in. Family-friendly property. Pets are not allowed.
Yosemite Lodging FAQs
When Should I Book Yosemite Lodging?
Yosemite lodging books out up to a year in advance, and it’s best to secure your reservation as early as possible, especially if you are hoping to stay in Yosemite Valley. Lodging inside Yosemite National Park typically opens 366 days ahead of time. If planning to stay outside the national park, lodging is not quite as competitive, but demand still exceeds supply during the summer high season.
What is the Best Place to Stay in Yosemite?
If it’s your first time visiting Yosemite, it’s best to base yourself in Yosemite Valley since this is where most of Yosemite’s sights, hikes, and attractions are. Yosemite Valley has lodging options catering to all budgets, but reservations are highly competitive. If you cannot secure lodging in Yosemite Valley, Wawona and Fish Camp are great options if visiting from Los Angeles, and El Portal is most convenient if traveling from San Francisco.
Does Yosemite Require Reservations?
In summer 2022, reservations were required to enter Yosemite National Park during peak hours (6 am – 4 pm). However, aside from certain dates in February (during the Horsetail Fall phenomenon), reservations will not be required for 2023.
Does Yosemite National Park Allow Dogs?
Dogs are allowed in Yosemite National Park but are limited in where they can go. Leashed pets are permitted on paved roads, sidewalks, and bicycle paths and are permitted on the Wawona Meadow Loop. Dogs are not allowed on any other trails, including Vernal Fall. Most Yosemite campgrounds are dog-friendly, but Yosemite lodges are not. Tenaya Lodge and Best Western Plus are two great pet-friendly options near the park. We also have a guide to the best Pet-Friendly Cabins in Yosemite – many of which are located inside the park gate.
Does Yosemite Have Cell Phone Service?
There is limited cell reception in Yosemite Valley for Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile customers. Alternatively, WiFi is available at Degnan’s Kitchen in Yosemite Village. WiFi is also available to lodging guests at the Ahwahnee, Yosemite Valley Lodge, Curry Village, and Wawona Hotel.
Explore more National Park Lodging Guides
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